As The COVID-19 epidemic spread across the world, all businesses and industries are evolving to accommodate the growing public stream. In the case of Pokémon Go, a game that requires you to step out into the real world and collect available points, Niantic will temporarily change various mechanics to help maximize the safety of its players.
In a statement to Polgongon, a Niantic representative said the studio is now "prioritizing updates to Pokémon GO features and experiences that can be enjoyed in each setting. ”Notably, the game will be expanding areas for coaches to see monsters nearby while playing near home.
Perfume packs, which raise monster spawns, also continue at a 99% discount – and once they're in effect, they will now last for an hour.
Incubators, who ask players to get a certain number of steps before hatching eggs containing Pokémon, will now work better. “Coaches can kick Eggity eggs very quickly,” says Niantic.
In the end, the PokéStops throw Gifts in more quantities. All of these changes take effect immediately, and will continue until "you get more information," Niantic told Polygon. In addition to these tweaks, Niantic has already postponed its pre-planned Abra Community Day, along with other real-world events. Existing events, such as the first season of the Civil War game, will allow players to compete against each other without being in the same place, while the upcoming Special Research adventure to launch Genesis will require activities that "can't be completed," Niantic says.
"Although we have made these updates based on the global health situation, we are also encouraging players to make decisions about where to go and what to do to be more committed to their health and their communities," said Niantic.
